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Fact vs. Fiction

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Consultation has concluded

Where is your information coming from? Hopefully, it's a few different places. But sometimes, as information is shared, opinions are mixed in, and flecks of truth are engorged into nuggets of falsities, it can be hard to tell fact from fiction.

So, what have you heard? Did it sound too good to be true? Did it raise an eyebrow?

Well, we're here to help. When information from the City makes its way into the community, it can sometimes take on a life of its own. Think of the old game of telephone; the original message ends up partially and entirely different than the final one. We understand this happens, sometimes by accident and sometimes purposeful information twisting.

If you have a question, have heard something you're unsure about, or want to let us know how we can communicate clearer, this is the page to do it.

Where is your information coming from? Hopefully, it's a few different places. But sometimes, as information is shared, opinions are mixed in, and flecks of truth are engorged into nuggets of falsities, it can be hard to tell fact from fiction.

So, what have you heard? Did it sound too good to be true? Did it raise an eyebrow?

Well, we're here to help. When information from the City makes its way into the community, it can sometimes take on a life of its own. Think of the old game of telephone; the original message ends up partially and entirely different than the final one. We understand this happens, sometimes by accident and sometimes purposeful information twisting.

If you have a question, have heard something you're unsure about, or want to let us know how we can communicate clearer, this is the page to do it.

Consultation has concluded

If you've heard it, likely, someone else has too. Let's figure out the root of the issue and provide context to the solution. Ask us your questions.

  • Share Hi. We`re concerned about flooding in our area opposite Welland County Speedway. After rains and spring melts the ditch on the North side of Netherby Road reaches the very tops of the culverts and has flowed over driveways. This is an ultra large and deep ditch that we believe has had more water directed to it ( to alleviate flows to the townline tunnel ) than at times it can handle. We are concerned because in the possibility of extreme weather conditions, we could experience flooding. We notice that at these same times, very little water is flowing in the ditches leading to the tunnel. on Facebook Share Hi. We`re concerned about flooding in our area opposite Welland County Speedway. After rains and spring melts the ditch on the North side of Netherby Road reaches the very tops of the culverts and has flowed over driveways. This is an ultra large and deep ditch that we believe has had more water directed to it ( to alleviate flows to the townline tunnel ) than at times it can handle. We are concerned because in the possibility of extreme weather conditions, we could experience flooding. We notice that at these same times, very little water is flowing in the ditches leading to the tunnel. on Twitter Share Hi. We`re concerned about flooding in our area opposite Welland County Speedway. After rains and spring melts the ditch on the North side of Netherby Road reaches the very tops of the culverts and has flowed over driveways. This is an ultra large and deep ditch that we believe has had more water directed to it ( to alleviate flows to the townline tunnel ) than at times it can handle. We are concerned because in the possibility of extreme weather conditions, we could experience flooding. We notice that at these same times, very little water is flowing in the ditches leading to the tunnel. on Linkedin Email Hi. We`re concerned about flooding in our area opposite Welland County Speedway. After rains and spring melts the ditch on the North side of Netherby Road reaches the very tops of the culverts and has flowed over driveways. This is an ultra large and deep ditch that we believe has had more water directed to it ( to alleviate flows to the townline tunnel ) than at times it can handle. We are concerned because in the possibility of extreme weather conditions, we could experience flooding. We notice that at these same times, very little water is flowing in the ditches leading to the tunnel. link

    Hi. We`re concerned about flooding in our area opposite Welland County Speedway. After rains and spring melts the ditch on the North side of Netherby Road reaches the very tops of the culverts and has flowed over driveways. This is an ultra large and deep ditch that we believe has had more water directed to it ( to alleviate flows to the townline tunnel ) than at times it can handle. We are concerned because in the possibility of extreme weather conditions, we could experience flooding. We notice that at these same times, very little water is flowing in the ditches leading to the tunnel.

    Ron asked over 1 year ago

    City staff investigated the water levels and condition of the ditches opposite the speedway. Culverts are not obstructed and are freely flowing. We will assess the area again when we experience a significant rain event to review the performance of the ditch during a rain fall.

  • Share Hi I`m concerned about a development that is progressing at 396 Netherby road. From neighbours I`ve learned that it is a possible multi unit / possibly semi high rise dwelling. Can you give us the truth of what is actually being proposed at this location? To date all we can ascertain is that hundreds of loads of fill have been brought in. on Facebook Share Hi I`m concerned about a development that is progressing at 396 Netherby road. From neighbours I`ve learned that it is a possible multi unit / possibly semi high rise dwelling. Can you give us the truth of what is actually being proposed at this location? To date all we can ascertain is that hundreds of loads of fill have been brought in. on Twitter Share Hi I`m concerned about a development that is progressing at 396 Netherby road. From neighbours I`ve learned that it is a possible multi unit / possibly semi high rise dwelling. Can you give us the truth of what is actually being proposed at this location? To date all we can ascertain is that hundreds of loads of fill have been brought in. on Linkedin Email Hi I`m concerned about a development that is progressing at 396 Netherby road. From neighbours I`ve learned that it is a possible multi unit / possibly semi high rise dwelling. Can you give us the truth of what is actually being proposed at this location? To date all we can ascertain is that hundreds of loads of fill have been brought in. link

    Hi I`m concerned about a development that is progressing at 396 Netherby road. From neighbours I`ve learned that it is a possible multi unit / possibly semi high rise dwelling. Can you give us the truth of what is actually being proposed at this location? To date all we can ascertain is that hundreds of loads of fill have been brought in.

    Ron asked over 1 year ago

    The property received approval for Minor Variance on October 20, 2021. At the time of the application, the proposal sought to permit existing trailers located on the property to be used as an accessory dwelling unit while a single detached dwelling was being constructed. If you'd like a copy of the Notice of Decision, we would be happy to send you one.

  • Share When city projects are being planned and the work extends beyond the city's border (e.g., infrastructure, road work, etc.) does the adjoining city/town become involved and take on their part so both are working collaboratively? Especially if it's being contracted out, it would be interesting to know which municipality (if both) is covering that cost. on Facebook Share When city projects are being planned and the work extends beyond the city's border (e.g., infrastructure, road work, etc.) does the adjoining city/town become involved and take on their part so both are working collaboratively? Especially if it's being contracted out, it would be interesting to know which municipality (if both) is covering that cost. on Twitter Share When city projects are being planned and the work extends beyond the city's border (e.g., infrastructure, road work, etc.) does the adjoining city/town become involved and take on their part so both are working collaboratively? Especially if it's being contracted out, it would be interesting to know which municipality (if both) is covering that cost. on Linkedin Email When city projects are being planned and the work extends beyond the city's border (e.g., infrastructure, road work, etc.) does the adjoining city/town become involved and take on their part so both are working collaboratively? Especially if it's being contracted out, it would be interesting to know which municipality (if both) is covering that cost. link

    When city projects are being planned and the work extends beyond the city's border (e.g., infrastructure, road work, etc.) does the adjoining city/town become involved and take on their part so both are working collaboratively? Especially if it's being contracted out, it would be interesting to know which municipality (if both) is covering that cost.

    Stacey Baker asked almost 2 years ago

    Any projects beyond the City of Welland’s limits do not fall within our scope. The City of Welland is only financially responsible for work done within our municipality.

  • Share What is happening with the old steel factory adjacent to blue star restaurant king and ontario. I heard a new subdivision on Facebook Share What is happening with the old steel factory adjacent to blue star restaurant king and ontario. I heard a new subdivision on Twitter Share What is happening with the old steel factory adjacent to blue star restaurant king and ontario. I heard a new subdivision on Linkedin Email What is happening with the old steel factory adjacent to blue star restaurant king and ontario. I heard a new subdivision link

    What is happening with the old steel factory adjacent to blue star restaurant king and ontario. I heard a new subdivision

    Rheanna asked almost 2 years ago

    The properties known as 200 Dain Avenue (Former Energex) and 65 Canal Bank (Former Union Carbide) are currently being rehabilitated to accommodate new non-residential development in accordance with the current G1 – General industrial Zoning.  This includes removal of old concrete foundations, regrading and environmental remediation. No residential development is proposed at this time.

  • Share Smart cities. Whose idea was it to apply for grant? What happens if Welland gets it? What are the road signs on rice road and around the city that are covered with garbage bags? on Facebook Share Smart cities. Whose idea was it to apply for grant? What happens if Welland gets it? What are the road signs on rice road and around the city that are covered with garbage bags? on Twitter Share Smart cities. Whose idea was it to apply for grant? What happens if Welland gets it? What are the road signs on rice road and around the city that are covered with garbage bags? on Linkedin Email Smart cities. Whose idea was it to apply for grant? What happens if Welland gets it? What are the road signs on rice road and around the city that are covered with garbage bags? link

    Smart cities. Whose idea was it to apply for grant? What happens if Welland gets it? What are the road signs on rice road and around the city that are covered with garbage bags?

    Fiorec asked almost 2 years ago

    Thanks for the question. Are you referring to Welland becoming a Smart City in 2016 as per City of Welland is a "Smart City"?

    As for the road signs, they may not be currently in use, so they are covered up for the time being. 

  • Share Why does development in Welland revolve around a stated goal of an 85% population increase in the next 20 years, when no other provisions are being made to accommodate the population of such an unsustainable growth, and in the past 20 years the population growth has been <10%? Local governments are spearheading gentrification efforts for the purpose of displacing poor residents to increase their tax base, at the detriment of the community and those from it on Facebook Share Why does development in Welland revolve around a stated goal of an 85% population increase in the next 20 years, when no other provisions are being made to accommodate the population of such an unsustainable growth, and in the past 20 years the population growth has been <10%? Local governments are spearheading gentrification efforts for the purpose of displacing poor residents to increase their tax base, at the detriment of the community and those from it on Twitter Share Why does development in Welland revolve around a stated goal of an 85% population increase in the next 20 years, when no other provisions are being made to accommodate the population of such an unsustainable growth, and in the past 20 years the population growth has been <10%? Local governments are spearheading gentrification efforts for the purpose of displacing poor residents to increase their tax base, at the detriment of the community and those from it on Linkedin Email Why does development in Welland revolve around a stated goal of an 85% population increase in the next 20 years, when no other provisions are being made to accommodate the population of such an unsustainable growth, and in the past 20 years the population growth has been <10%? Local governments are spearheading gentrification efforts for the purpose of displacing poor residents to increase their tax base, at the detriment of the community and those from it link

    Why does development in Welland revolve around a stated goal of an 85% population increase in the next 20 years, when no other provisions are being made to accommodate the population of such an unsustainable growth, and in the past 20 years the population growth has been <10%? Local governments are spearheading gentrification efforts for the purpose of displacing poor residents to increase their tax base, at the detriment of the community and those from it

    DEGRADATION IN QUALITY OF LIFE vs FICTION asked almost 2 years ago

    Municipal planning policies including population growth projections or forecasts are guided by Provincial Planning Policies including the Provincial Policy Statement and the Growth Plan for Greater Golden Horseshoe; the Region of Niagara Official Plan and market conditions. The City must at minimum implement these policies in our own Official Plan and Zoning By-law.  Our current population forecast is projected to increase from 55,750 in 2021 to approximately 105,975 in 2041.  The City seen 944 and 759 housing starts in 2022 and 2021 respectively and this is relatively close to our current forecasts. From a municipal planning perspective we must plan for this reality to ensure the growth can be managed in a sustainable way. The past 20 years are not reflective of the City’s current situation where we experience very slow growth.   

    In terms of managing this growth and continuing to provide a high level of service for existing residents, the City maintains a capital forecast which lays out the capital improvements (roads, infrastructure, parks, facilities etc.) which are needed to accommodate existing residents and new residents.  Many project are funded from a variety of sources such City taxes, development charges, cash-in-lieu of parkland (where applicable), and other sources of Provincial and Federal Grant Programs where available.

    https://www.welland.ca/Finance/BudgetsFinancials.asp

    The City has completed a development charges background study and by-law which ensures that growth pays for growth. You can view that at the following link:

    https://www.welland.ca/Planning/pdfs/Welland2022DCBackgroundStudy.pdf

  • Share When an application for severance or rezoning, by a resident or commercial property, is submitted, can a Councillor promise constituents that certain restrictions will be included? on Facebook Share When an application for severance or rezoning, by a resident or commercial property, is submitted, can a Councillor promise constituents that certain restrictions will be included? on Twitter Share When an application for severance or rezoning, by a resident or commercial property, is submitted, can a Councillor promise constituents that certain restrictions will be included? on Linkedin Email When an application for severance or rezoning, by a resident or commercial property, is submitted, can a Councillor promise constituents that certain restrictions will be included? link

    When an application for severance or rezoning, by a resident or commercial property, is submitted, can a Councillor promise constituents that certain restrictions will be included?

    almost 2 years ago

    No, an application for severance or consent is considered by the Committee of Adjustment, not City Council or a City Councillor. The Committee of Adjustment considers all comments received and applicable City, Regional and Provincial Planning Policies in deciding. If residents have concerns regarding a specific severance of consent, they should contact City Staff to ask questions, submit comments in writing and/or make comments at the Committee of Adjustment Hearing. For more information on the severance process see the following link:

    https://www.welland.ca/Planning/COAAppl.asp

     

    In terms of a rezoning or a zoning by-law amendment, these applications are currently considered by City Council. A City Councillor can bring their constituents’ concerns forward to be considered by City Council, but ultimately it is City Council that makes the decision, not an individual Councillor. The decision can be appealed to the Ontario Land Tribunal and Council decision would need to conform with applicable Planning Policies in Ontario.

     

    More information on Zoning By-law Amendments and the Comprehensive Zoning By-law can be found at the following link.

    https://www.welland.ca/Planning/ZoningBylaw-Comprehensive.asp

  • Share Does a Councillor have the right to ensure residents in an affected area be notified in writing of a new development with the type of buildings being built prior to this being presented to Council? on Facebook Share Does a Councillor have the right to ensure residents in an affected area be notified in writing of a new development with the type of buildings being built prior to this being presented to Council? on Twitter Share Does a Councillor have the right to ensure residents in an affected area be notified in writing of a new development with the type of buildings being built prior to this being presented to Council? on Linkedin Email Does a Councillor have the right to ensure residents in an affected area be notified in writing of a new development with the type of buildings being built prior to this being presented to Council? link

    Does a Councillor have the right to ensure residents in an affected area be notified in writing of a new development with the type of buildings being built prior to this being presented to Council?

    almost 2 years ago

    The notification requirements for different types of Planning Act applications are set out in the Planning Act, with each type of application having specific requirements for notifying the public and other stakeholders. Some applications like Site Plan Control and Building Permit application do not have public notification requirements. More information on the different type of Planning Applications can be found at the following link:

     

    https://www.ontario.ca/document/citizens-guide-land-use-planning

  • Share Can staff please explain the process what the city does when a developer comes to the city with a proposal and what the city’s responsibility is for the notification process is? on Facebook Share Can staff please explain the process what the city does when a developer comes to the city with a proposal and what the city’s responsibility is for the notification process is? on Twitter Share Can staff please explain the process what the city does when a developer comes to the city with a proposal and what the city’s responsibility is for the notification process is? on Linkedin Email Can staff please explain the process what the city does when a developer comes to the city with a proposal and what the city’s responsibility is for the notification process is? link

    Can staff please explain the process what the city does when a developer comes to the city with a proposal and what the city’s responsibility is for the notification process is?

    almost 2 years ago

    The first step in the process when a developer or resident comes to the City with a proposal is to determine if a pre-consultation is required. Pre-consultation with the City is required by By-law 2022-148. Pre-consultation identifies the information required to commence the processing of a development application. Pre-consultation does not imply or suggest any decision whatsoever on behalf of City staff or the City of Welland to either support or refuse this application. There is no public notification of this as they have not yet formally made a Planning Application where public notification would be required. Proposals presented as part of pre-consultation often to do go forward or are substantially changed to meet City requirements. Many proposals that the City receives often go directly to apply for a building permit as they meet City requirements and require not Planning Act approvals.

  • Share Why aren’t all municipal parks across the city maintained during winter? on Facebook Share Why aren’t all municipal parks across the city maintained during winter? on Twitter Share Why aren’t all municipal parks across the city maintained during winter? on Linkedin Email Why aren’t all municipal parks across the city maintained during winter? link

    Why aren’t all municipal parks across the city maintained during winter?

    almost 2 years ago

    Only specific trails that are council approved that are used as active transportation systems are considered for winter maintenance.  Many of our path systems and parks do no have winter maintenance.  This would be an exorbitant cost to the taxpayer if all parks and trails received winter maintenance.